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Real Estate Update |
September 20115 -- Labor Day |
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Disaster Assistance for Hurricane IreneThe Federal Government has set up a website that allows people to apply online for assistance: http://www.disasterassistance.gov |
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New Listings for SeptemberFIRST TIME HOME BUYER or DOWNSIZER - Click Here |
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~ Leonardo da Vinci |
Home Sales Down in July, But Up Strongly From Last YearThe National Association of Realtors® recently reported that existing-home sales declined in July from an upwardly revised June pace but are notably higher than a year ago. Monthly gains in the Northeast and Midwest were offset by declines in the West and South. Total existing-home sales, which are completed transactions that include single-family, townhomes, condominiums and co-ops, fell 3.5 percent to a seasonally-adjusted annual rate of 4.67 million in July from 4.84 million in June, but are 21.0 percent above the 3.86 million unit pace in July 2010, which was a cyclical low immediately following the expiration of the home buyer tax credit. “Affordability conditions this year have been the most favorable on record dating back to 1970, but many buyers are being held back because banks are offering financing to only the most highly qualified borrowers, ignoring a large share of otherwise creditworthy buyers,” said NAR Chief Economist Lawrence Yun. “Those potential buyers represent the difference between an uneven recovery and a much more robust housing market that could stimulate additional economic activity and create jobs.” The national average commitment rate for a 30-year, conventional, fixed-rate mortgage was 4.55 percent in July, up from 4.51 percent in June, according to Freddie Mac. |
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The only way to make a man trustworthy is to trust him. |
Make Home Repairs Before ListingMost home sellers are aware that there's a lot of competition on the market right now. And, most buyer's know they have a lot of choices. So, what can a home owner do to get an edge? Try this: Have your home inspected and all repairs made prior to putting it on the market. If your home is already in great condition, the cost will be minimal. If your home needs a lot of work, you would probably have to make the repairs anyway or discount the price to engage the buyer. A pre-inspected home in good repair could pay off with a higher asking price and quicker sale. Believe it or not, when a buyer has two comparable homes that meet his needs and desires, the home that doesn't need any work will probably win out. After all, who wants to move into a new house and have to fix a broken window or repair the cracked toilet? Keep the report handy to show potential buyers what has already been done. Chances are they'll still get their own home inspection, but knowing in advance the home has been "cleared" makes it easier to make a fair offer and more difficult to make a low-ball "this-home-needs-a-lot-of-work" offer. TOP |
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Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be. |
Tankless Water Heaters Make Good SenseIf your current water heater is on its last leg, or you've decided you need a better unit to suit your needs, consider a tankless water heater when you go shopping. Tankless water heaters can save energy and money and deliver an endless flow of hot water. While a conventional tank-style water heater continuously stores 40 to 80 gallons of water and keeps it hot until it’s needed, a tankless water heater only heats water when it's needed. Obviously, keeping 40 to 80 gallons of water hot 24 hours a day, seven days a week, month after month, wastes considerable energy. There are several varieties of tankless water heaters, from small electric point-of-use models (for use at a specific location, such as a kitchen or bathroom sink) to larger gas appliances that supply the entire house. Point of use models start around $150 and larger units capable of supplying more hot water start around $750. |
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The average pencil is seven inches long, with just a half-inch eraser - in case you thought optimism was dead. |
Trivia ChallengeQuestion
1.) Casper, Laramie, Gillette, Sheridan and Cody are all cities located in which state? Question
2.) It was Camelot at the White House in the early 1960s. What game was likely to be taking place on the White House lawn? Question
3.) Kevin Kline, Meryl Streep, Woody Harrelson, Virginia Madsen, Tommy Lee Jones, Robin Williams and Lily Tomlin appear together in this 2006 movie. What is the title of this film? Question
4.) In which decade were the Beach Boys feeling "Good Vibrations"? Question
5.) What modern country is home to the ancient city of Babylon? |
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Nothing is more fatal to Health, than an over Care of it. |
Strength Training Offers Many BenefitsA recent study conducted by researchers from the University of North Carolina found that when they compared the amount of growth hormone released as a result of a 30-minute-aerobic-exercise session or strength training, significantly more was released with the strength-training workout. So, if you are looking for a way to fight aging naturally -- and increase fat burning while you're at it -- you may want to consider strength training as part of your exercise program. The best strength-training exercises to use are multiple-muscle and total-body exercises, such as step-ups, lunges and squats. You can perform these with or without dumbbells. Start with three sets of eight repetitions, two to three times per week. As you get in better shape, add a pushing exercise, such as push-ups or dumbbell chest presses. This simple routine will give you a fast, total-body workout that builds muscle, burns fat and boosts growth hormone. TOP |
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An optimist is a guy that has never had much experience. |
September Movie Releases
*Opening dates may vary depending on where you live. |
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All happiness depends on a leisurely breakfast. |
Grilled Marinated ShrimpIngredients - Serves 6
Directions
Wine Pairing
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There are only two emotions in a plane: boredom and terror. |
Use Up Your Foreign CurrencyOften at the end of a trip to a foreign destination, you'll find yourself stuck with a variety of coins and bills that aren't easy to convert back to dollars. In fact, many times you might not even know what they're worth. Instead of bringing this money home and eventually losing it, or giving it to your kids to play with, why not spend it? Not on a useless trinket in the hotel gift shop, but on your bill. Most hotels will accept all your left over cash and gladly put the balance on your credit card. Depending on your transportation arrangements, you may want to keep enough for a taxi ride and tipping. |
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| Click here to unsubscribe Robert McLaughlin & Julie A. Willis 535 Lacey Road Forked River, NJ 08731 This eNewsletter contains information, facts and opinions from various individuals and organizations. This eNewsletter is provided on an "as-is" basis without warranties of any kind, either express or implied. I/We are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Consult with your doctor, fitness consultant, attorney, accountant, or other professional advisor when necessary. © 2011 eNewsletterSolutions.  |
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